New Brighter Partnership to Ignite Positive Change

The Australian gas sector has thrown its weight behind one of Australia’s most prominent gender equity programs today following the announcement of a new partnership.

The Brighter program has become the newest partner of Science & Technology Australia’s Superstars of STEM program. The Brighter program is designed to improve awareness amongst Australians on the benefits of natural gas, including the vast array of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) opportunities offered by a career in the industry.

Kylie Walker, CEO of Science & Technology Australia, said the partnership would help link Superstars of STEM with regional and rural schools, so that more young women and girls could hear from the inspiring women taking part in the program.

“Brighter joins a team of partners that includes the likes of GE and STEM Matters, organisations that are looking to support strong female role models in science and technology to inspire younger Australians,” Ms Walker said.

“We have seen in so many fields of science and technology that diversity leads to better economic, social and professional outcomes.

“We are energised to work with industry partners to drive grassroots change, particularly in sectors which share our aim to increase the number of prominent female professionals.”

Director of Communications for Brighter, Sarah Browne, said the Australian gas sector was working hard to improve opportunities to attract, train and retain women in the industry.

“We are thrilled to come on board as the gas partner for the Superstars of STEM program,” said Ms Browne.

“Brighter recognises the importance of encouraging more young women and girls into STEM-related careers, particularly in the natural gas industry.”

“At our recent lunch to celebrate the UN’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science we heard from a number of women, including Superstars of STEM alumnus Dr Sue Barrell, who told us: ‘We need to get everyone on a level playing field when it comes to STEM.’ Through our support of Superstars of STEM and our own efforts, we want to show Australian women and girls the amazing STEM roles that are available to them.”

“We are looking forward to working with Science & Technology Australia and the Superstars of STEM to promote the exciting and innovative careers that are available to women.”

The announcement takes place just prior to the Superstars’ first workshop, and International Womens Day on 8 March.